Judge — October 11, 1890 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This October 11, 1890 *Judge* cartoon satirizes two prominent Maine political figures watching each other warily while eyeing an apple—likely representing political power or office. The caption "Each keeps an eye on the other, and also has an eye on the apple" suggests political rivalry and self-interest. The caricatures appear to depict Maine politicians in a competitive standoff, each suspicious of the other's ambitions. The "apple" represents a desirable political prize they both covet. The cartoon mocks their mutual distrust and naked political ambition—the suggestion being that both men prioritize personal gain over principle or public service. Without additional context, the specific identities remain unclear, though the cartoon clearly critiques factional political rivalry within Maine politics.